* Galle Marvels’ Tim Seifert records unbeaten ton in losing cause
* LPL 2024 (Match 6 – GM vs JF)
By Marlon Dale Ferreira
The Galle Marvels, previously undefeated, received a reality check as the Jaffna Kings chased down their total of 187 for 5, securing a five-wicket victory in a nail-biting finish. Despite Tim Seifert’s magnificent unbeaten century, the Marvels were left 10-15 runs short, failing to contain the Kings’ onslaught in the final overs.
Seifert played a lone hand for Galle, scoring a remarkable 104* and anchoring the innings as Bhanuka Rajapaksa (28) and Alex Hales (23) provided support. However, the Marvels’ innings lacked the necessary cameos to push the score beyond 200.
Azmatullah Omarzai was instrumental for the Kings with the ball, taking 2 for 33 and stifling Galle’s late charge. Despite their efforts, the Marvels’ total of 187 seemed just within reach for the Kings.
Chasing 188, the Jaffna Kings got off to a steady start with Rilee Rossouw’s crucial 67 and Kusal Mendis’ 30, setting a solid foundation.
The game took a dramatic turn when Rossouw departed, leaving the Kings needing 21 runs off the final eight balls.
Omarzai rose to the occasion, smashing 35* off just 13 deliveries, single-handedly propelling the Kings to victory. His explosive hitting in the death overs ensured the Kings chased down 43 runs in the last 18 balls.
The match’s turning point came in the final over when Niroshan Dickwella had no option but to turn to the inexperienced Sahan Arachchige. Omarzai capitalized on this, sealing the win for the Kings.
Despite a disciplined effort earlier in the innings, the Marvels’ bowlers couldn’t withstand the late assault, undermining the importance of having an experienced bowler to depend on in a crunch situation.
Chief Scores:
Galle Titans – 187 for 5 in 20 overs (Tim Seifert 104*, Bhanuka Rajapaksa 28, Alex Hales 23, Azmatullah Omarzai 2 for 33, Pramod Madushan 1 for 36, Fabian Allen 1 for 42)
Jaffna Kings – 191 for 5 in 19.4 overs (Rilee Rossouw 67, Azmatullah Omarzai 35*, Kusal Mendis 30, Zahoor Khan 2 for 33, Maheesh Theekshana 1 for 29, Dwaine Pretorius 1 for 34)
Player of the Match – Azmatullah Omarzai
